By Asian Journal Auto Editor

2018 Ford Ecosport pic 1The interesting looking compact Ford EcoSport is all new to Canada and the U.S subcompact-crossover vehicle, it is however, already sold in different versions around the globe and is based on the same platform as the Ford Fiesta. The Fiesta is due to be retired as the EcoSport replaces it, part of Fords shift to eliminating most sedan cars from its lineup. The EcoSport is an attractive looking CUV with its tall greenhouse and bigger ground clearance. There is a strong Ford DNA running through the EcoSport with its confident grille and front fascia treatment. With five doors the EcoSport is practical as well. There are two engine choices. A 1.0L 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine producing 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque as standard, while the EcoSport SES version offers a 2.0L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder GDI unit, with 167 hp and 149 lb-ft of torque. With the exception of the EcoSport SES, all versions come with front-wheel drive and Transmission is via a 6-speed automatic transmission, the 2018 Ford EcoSport is offered in four trim lines: S, SE, SES and the top loaded Titanium. At $22,099, the S version with 1.0-liter engine is the entry model, while the SE, model which we tested came with a $24,999 starting price, and offers upgraded standard equipment, for example: automatic climate control, 16-inch painted aluminum wheels, automatic climate control, the SYNC 3 system and much more. The options on our tester included the SE convenience package at $1,750, which included the larger 8-inch touchscreen. The top of the line Titanium edition, at $28,599 offers 17-inch alloy wheels, heated seats and steering, leather seats, driving aids and a 10-speaker premium Bang & Olufsen audio system, Getting the available all-wheel drive will set you back an additional $2,500.

2018 Ford ECOSPORT PIC 2The EcoSport interior offers a smart, well-built cabin, black plastic trim and surfacing dominates but it seems durable. Some aluminum trim brightens up the higher models. The seat are comfortable and come heated as on our SE. The inside of the EcoSport offers plenty of features that buyers now take for granted, especially on the technology front. There is 4G LTE wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto s standard and potential for the Waze, navigation software app adaptability. There is also Ford’s easy to use SYNC 3 system for infotainment, full Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and a cool sleeve for viewing rear tablets on the back of the front passenger seat. There are also side receptacles for smartphones and the larger touchscreen on the SE offers excellent graphics and usability. Overall room is good, although legroom is a little tight for the long limbed in the rear cabin if the front seats are pushed all the way back. Cargo capacity is rated at 592 litres behind the rear seats and 1,416 litres when you fold them flat. That’s pretty impressive for such a small CUV. The rear door is a swing out affair to the curb which is unusual, but works fine.

On the road, the 1.0L 3-cylinder EcoBoost engine produces 123 hp and 125 lb-ft of torque, that’s enough to propel the Ecosport in all situations. The turbo unit is smooth, refined and an excellent match for the 6-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain does an exemplary job considering the tiny engine. Don’t expect sporty acceleration, however fuel consumption is very good at (litres/100 km): 1.0-litre EcoBoost, 8.6 city/8.1 hwy. Downsides are few, the short wheelbase and firm suspension makes it prone to some harshness on jarring road surfaces and sound insulation could be improved a bit. I would highly recommend the SE version as tested, which is good value for the price along with ticking the option box for Cold Weather package, which adds such winter killers such as heated side-view mirrors, steering wheel and windshield wipers. To sum up, the EcoSport introduction is good move by Ford as it shows a lot of promise as an alternative to a small compact sedan, Highly recommended and should do very well,

2018 Ford EcoSport FWD SE Base pried from $24,999. Price as tested with options delivery and handling $28,639. More info at ford.ca